Sizing a van around what you are moving
List the largest items with rough length, width and height, and give an estimate of total weight, because bulk and payload limit a van in different ways. Mention anything awkward, such as a wardrobe that cannot be dismantled or long timber. Describe loading at both ends, including stairs, lift access, distance from the kerb and whether anyone will help lift.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
Start with the load, then choose the van. A small van works well for boxes, tools and light collections; medium and long-wheelbase vans suit furniture, stock and trade equipment; and a Luton is the better choice for bulkier items on a house move. Subject to dates, driver details and availability, the range includes the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB. Make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are all confirmed at quote stage, so treat these vehicles as a guide to the kind of hire on offer rather than a guaranteed reservation of a particular model.
Planning a Collection With a Seller
If you have agreed to collect furniture or equipment from a private seller, a little preparation before the hire date can settle several unknowns. Start by asking the seller for a rough inventory: how many pieces there are, what each one is made of and whether anything comes apart into smaller sections. Note down the dimensions of the largest items, including any awkward angles or protruding parts, and ask whether wardrobes, shelving or tables were originally delivered flat-packed. It is also worth confirming the collection address, the time window the seller prefers and a phone number for the day itself. If the seller is arranging the sale through a third party, find out who will be present to hand over the items. Pass the full list and measurements to the team when requesting a quote, since the choice between a small van, Transit or Luton may depend on what you describe.
Recording Your Unloading Plan on Paper
Should your journey end at two different addresses, perhaps some boxes to a storage unit and the rest to a new home, a written record made in advance keeps the day organised. List each item against its destination, then add notes such as which room a sofa is destined for or which boxes belong in a garage. You might also record the recipient's name and contact number at each address, plus any preferred delivery window they have mentioned. If access at either stop is uncertain, the recipient can ask the destination contact about parking, gates or narrow entrances, as those details sit with them rather than the hire team. Note the collection and drop-off addresses alongside your hire dates, and share the whole list when you request a quote so the vehicle options can be discussed against what you describe.
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Things to check before booking
Before the hire is confirmed, go over the key points: whether the vehicle is available, the driver requirements, mileage, insurance, the delivery or collection arrangements and any extras you have asked for. Make sure payload, loading height, tail-lift needs, driver details, deposits and insurance excess are confirmed before you settle on a van size. A clear request gives the date, the length of hire, a rough route, the delivery or pickup address, the passengers or load you expect and any special requirements that might affect which vehicle is suitable.